Welcome to We Are Forensic. This website is a resource for scientists and students, and analyses the latest developments in the fast-moving world of forensic science. We also provide professional services for businesses, legal teams and athletes…

Dr Tom Bassindale

We Are Forensic is run by Dr Tom Bassindale, a lecturer in forensic science who has specialist experience in forensic toxicology. He has established a reputation for providing professional forensic services for the police and courts. Dr Bassindale is a Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry, The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists and the Society of Hair Testing.

He says: “I’m currently a lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, a centre of excellence for forensic studies. Before taking up my academic role in September 2011, I worked in New Zealand as a forensic scientist for the national forensic science provider ESR. I managed hundreds of forensic toxicology cases, both criminal and coronial. I became experienced in giving court evidence, in family and criminal courts, and at each stage of criminal proceedings.

“The laboratory in NZ is accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLAD/LAB) based on ISO 17025 standards. I attained Authorised Analyst status under the Land Transport Act 1998, allowing me to report drug and drink driving cases.

“Prior to this my background was sports drug testing, working for the world leading Drug Control Centre at King’s College in London. My PhD ‘Analytical perspectives and endocrine implications of androstenedione administration in young women’ was published in several peer reviewed articles. One of the articles was referenced by the Food and Drug Administration White Paper on ‘Health Effects of Androstenedione’, which was passed by the US Congress. My MSc project on the analysis of MDMA in urine samples was awarded best MSc Project by the British Academy of Forensic Science in 1999.

“I have published a number of peer reviewed articles in the area of forensic science and doping control. I also co-wrote a book chapter ‘Illicit Drugs and Toxicology’ in: Expert Evidence by Ian Freckelton and Hugh Selby, which was published 2010 by Thomson Reuters.

I have a degree in Chemistry from the University of Sussex and my MSc and PhD in forensic science from King’s College, London.

“I am avid cyclist and retain a big interest in sports drug testing – a topic I am sure I will touch on more than once in my blog.

About the Author

Dr Tom Bassindale is a forensic scientist, and the founder of We Are Forensic. He's managed hundreds of forensic toxicology cases, and is an experienced court witness. He has specialist expertise in forensic toxicology and drug testing in sport. Dr B is currently a senior lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University. And yes... he watches CSI.

Forensic fact…

Drugs are stored in the hair as it grows - largely remaining in place until that piece of hair is cut off.

Christiaan Bartlett on Jamaicans and footballers: how to interpret a single urine sample3rd Apr 17The contaminated meat causing clenbuterol positives is a real thing:
https://www.wada-ama.org/en/media/news/2011-10/wada-withdraws-cas-appeal-in-case-of-mexican-footballers
but as you say this exoneration maybe only possible because players …